Anorexia nervosa is a phrase that many have heard, but do you know what this eating disorder is and how it is treated? If you suffer from anorexia nervosa then you have an obsession with food or the lack of it, and you believe that you are overweight even if you are dangerously thin. Many celebrities have suffered from this eating disorder and some have died because they refused to accept treatment and starved themselves to death or suffered cardiac arrest because of severe malnutrition. Symptoms of anorexia nervosa can include:
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A negative self image
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Greatly restricting food intake
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Completely refusing to eat
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Exercising to an excessive degree
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Fear of weight gain
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Withdrawing socially
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Irregular menstrual cycles
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A complete lack of menstruation
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A very thin appearance
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Irregular heart beat
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Frequently feeling cold
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Little energy
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Irritability
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Being preoccupied with food
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Dehydration
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Skin that is dry and flaky
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Low blood pressure
Treatment for anorexia nervosa requires individual counseling as well as other treatment methods. Each person who has this eating disorder will have unique issues which cause the problem, and the root of these issues must be uncovered and resolved. Group sessions are also important so that you realize others share your problems and that you are not alone. If you suffer from anorexia nervosa or any other eating disorder then it is important to seek help as soon as possible. The false body image that you have could cause you serious and even permanent physical damage because of self starvation.